Key takeaways
Vardenafil (former brand names: Levitra, Staxyn) and sildenafil (Viagra) are both medications used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), but they have some differences. Vardenafil is available as a generic and comes in tablet and orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) forms, while sildenafil is available as a generic and brand Viagra but only in tablet form. You typically take vardenafil about an hour before sexual activity, and it can start working in as little as 15 minutes, whereas sildenafil is taken 30 minutes to 4 hours before sex. Both medications should not be taken more than once a day. Common side effects for both include headaches and flushing, but sildenafil has a higher incidence of these side effects. Additionally, vardenafil might work slightly faster than sildenafil and is available in a form that dissolves on your tongue, which can be helpful if you have trouble swallowing pills. Both medications require a prescription and cannot be taken if you have had a recent heart attack or stroke or if you are taking nitrates for chest pain.
